Campus News

Rockford University has named Stephen Kull as its next vice president for advancement, President Eric W. Fulcomer, Ph.D., announced today. Kull will start in his new role at Rockford University on August 5. He is currently serving as Associate Vice President for Advancement at Central Michigan University, located in Mount Pleasant, Mich. Kull will serve as Rockford University’s senior development officer and strategist for the Advancement Division, and as chief development adviser to the President, the Trustees, and other University officials on all matters involving current or potential philanthropic support.

“Stephen’s impressive background in all areas of donor engagement and development, specifically within higher education, will be of tremendous benefit to Rockford University,” said Fulcomer. “His proven experience in growing and deepening relationships with alumni, outside donors and the greater community will enhance the University’s ability to provide additional resources that support a stronger educational experience for our students. I am extremely pleased to welcome Stephen to our leadership team and look forward to working with him in growing our philanthropic efforts.”

As Vice President for Advancement, Kull will oversee all areas of Advancement which includes Alumni Relations, Planned Giving, Major Gifts, Corporate and Foundation Gifts, Data and Gift Management, Prospect and Grant Research, and Marketing & Communications. He brings nearly 15-years of higher education experience to his new role. At Central Michigan, he successfully managed fundraising efforts for the “Fire up for Excellence” $100 million campaign, the largest in the institution’s history. Kull previously served director of development – gift planning, senior director of development and interim assistant vice president for advancement at Eastern Illinois University, as well as in other development roles at Blackburn College and Concordia Seminary in St. Louis.

“I immediately related to President Fulcomer’s focus on the importance of supporting students’ success inside and outside of the classroom,” Kull said. “Employers today are not just looking for academically prepared graduates, but more importantly those graduates who represent character and the culture of their organizations. The University has an impressive and engaged alumni base from all corners of the globe and I look forward to working closely with them, along with parents and friends, to foster Rockford University’s remarkable legacy so that we can continue to change lives today and for years to come.”

A native of Texas, Kull earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Texas A&M University and has completed several advanced leadership and management certifications from University of Notre Dame, University of Michigan, Purdue University and Texas A& M University. He and his wife, Angela, have four young children and look forward to relocating to the Rockford area.